This recipe is incredibly easy, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. It combines simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry with the magic of tart apples to create something truly special. The balance of sweet and spice is just right, making every bite a delightful experience.
What makes this coffee cake stand out is the streusel topping. It’s crumbly, buttery, and adds a perfect texture contrast to the moist cake beneath it. And let’s not forget about the apple cider glaze—it’s like icing on the cake, quite literally! It brings everything together with its subtle tangy sweetness.
I’ve found that this cake doesn’t just satisfy the taste buds; it also fills the heart with warmth. Baking it has become a cherished ritual that we look forward to as a family. Even my kids enjoy helping out by mixing the batter or sneaking some of that irresistible streusel when I’m not looking!
If you’re searching for a recipe that’s both delicious and filled with heartwarming memories, this Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake is a winner. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just want a treat with your afternoon tea, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
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Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 and 1/2 to 2 tablespoons apple cider
- 1 large or 2 small tart apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons butter
Directions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch springform pan and place parchment paper at its base.
- Create the streusel by mixing brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. Add melted butter and vanilla; mix until you get an even consistency. Put aside.
- Cream together 4 tablespoons of butter with granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add the egg, then incorporate vanilla and sour cream until smooth.
- Sift together 1 cup of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in another bowl. Slowly integrate this into the creamed mixture until just combined.
- Spoon half of your batter into your prepared pan for a thin bottom layer. Scatter diced apples over it followed by about one cup of streusel. Layer on remaining batter, topping with leftover streusel.
- Bake in preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Run a knife around edges before removing ring from pan.
- To make glaze: whisk powdered sugar with apple cider until smooth; drizzle over cooled cake before serving.
No Apples? Try These Alternatives
If you find yourself without apples, pears make an excellent substitute due to their similar texture and sweetness when baked. Alternatively, peaches can add a different but delightful flavor profile to your coffee cake. Remember to adjust sugar levels according to fruit sweetness for balanced results.
The Best Accompaniments for Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
This coffee cake pairs beautifully with a steaming mug of coffee or tea, enhancing its warming flavors. Serve alongside fresh fruit such as berries or sliced oranges for added freshness and vibrancy. A dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream can elevate it into an indulgent dessert too!
Using What’s in Season for This Coffee Cake
During autumn months, opt for freshly picked apples from local orchards for best results—Granny Smiths are ideal due to their tartness which balances the sweetness perfectly. In summer months when stone fruits are abundant, consider using plums or nectarines instead for seasonal variation that doesn’t compromise flavor integrity.
Avoid These Mistakes When Cooking Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Avoid over mixing your batter as it can lead to dense cakes rather than light ones—mix until ingredients are just combined! Ensure all components reach room temperature before starting; this helps ingredients blend more seamlessly creating consistent textures throughout each slice you serve up! Finally always check doneness with toothpick test; ovens may vary slightly so timing isn’t always exact science here!
The Best Ways to Store Leftover Coffee Cake
Your coffee cake will stay fresh covered tightly at room temperature up three days though refrigeration extends shelf life up five days without sacrificing moisture levels too much either way! For longer storage options wrap individual slices foil freezer bags freeze maximum month thaw overnight fridge enjoy again whenever craving strikes once more!
FAQs:
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
You can absolutely make this cake ahead of time! Prepare it as directed and allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to five days or freeze individual slices for future use.
What kind of apples should I use?
Tart apples like Granny Smiths are recommended due to their firm texture which holds well during baking plus they provide nice contrast against sweeter elements present within recipe itself—though feel free experiment other varieties depending preferences season availability too!
How do I prevent my cake from being dry?
Avoid overbaking by keeping an eye on cooking times since different ovens may vary slightly regarding temperatures affecting overall outcomes negatively if unchecked properly initially!
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 and 1/2 to 2 tablespoons apple cider
- 1 large or 2 small tart apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch springform pan and line the base with parchment paper. Set it aside.
- In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients for the cinnamon streusel: the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla, then stir until evenly moistened. Set this aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the 4 tablespoons of butter with the 1/2 cup granulated sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg, then mix in the vanilla and sour cream until well combined.
- In another bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry blend to the butter mixture, stirring until just mixed.
- Spread half of the batter in the base of the prepared pan, which will create a thin layer. Distribute the diced apples on top, followed by about 1 cup of the streusel mixture. Add the remaining batter on top of the crumbs, and finish with the leftover streusel.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Before carefully removing the springform pan ring, run a thin knife around the edges.
- To make the glaze, whisk the powdered sugar with apple cider until smooth and drizzle it over the cooled cake.
- Enjoy this lovely coffee cake with a cup of coffee or tea! It pairs wonderfully with some fresh fruit on the side.